April Backes

Background

About April Backes

At 16, I was selected to be a part of USA Today's "Teen Panel". That newspaper selected one youth from various states. I was their Alaskan selection. We commented on current events of that era, and were asked to compare the education practices of our respective states. We would be asked to outline "A day in the life of a 16 year old in Alaska", what the trends of the time were, etc. I was so honored to be selected. As a hispanic youth, especially in Alaska, there were several instances of inequality. I am quite light complected, with roots in Spain, and I do not look Spanish. It always was a topic of interest to me, the way hispanics were treated and regarded. Not only in Alaska, but in states like New Mexico, where one would imagine by the name of the state alone, that the Spanish speaking population would be more highly regarded, and supported, such as interpreters at government facilities like the DMV. I recall translating for a couple while obtaining my first drivers license in Alaska. Clearly, before smartphones, translating took quite a lot of work. That couple were so grateful,(and surprised), that a blue eyed blonde at 16, could interpret for them. I remember the female was almost in tears with gratitude. That was a long time ago, and it is a core memory for me. As an adult in the legal profession, my bilingual ability allowed me to help people understand their legal processes. It has increased my salary and job retention. When a client finds a paralegal or interpreter they can easily work with, we become their go-to. Hence, I've been able to help legal clients from previous law firms, remotely, while teaching the Spanish language, history, and culture, to all ages, including adults at the University level. Teaching is my true passion. For a teacher, watching a student have a bit of curiosity,(or none at all, Spanish class is often an elective), to taking a year abroad and becoming bilingual is a success. When I teach, I use tools which seem unconventional, however are quite effective. I do not begin by asking where the library is, for example. Students don't visit Mexico or Spain in search of a library! Google Earth is a gift in language,(learning directions). My methods have been complimented by having been copied, using technology and poetry as tools. Poems don't need to make logical sense. The words can simply rhyme, which leads to discussion, laughter, and finally that "aha" moment when it clicks for the student. Then, the Spanish seed is planted, confidence increases considerably, and curiosity literally flourishes, becoming theirs.